A Case for Specific Education of Advanced Practice Providers in Allergy & Immunology: Results of a Gap Analysis and Targeted Needs Assessment

TL;DR

This paper highlights the lack of formal education for advanced practice providers in Allergy & Immunology and suggests the need for a specific curriculum.

Contribution

The study presents a gap analysis and needs assessment for Allergy & Immunology education among advanced practice providers.

Findings

Training in Allergy & Immunology for APPs in NP/PA schools is limited.

APPs feel only somewhat comfortable providing A&I care after training.

There is significant variation in the education and clinical training APPs receive.

Abstract

Advanced practice providers (APPs) are increasingly utilized throughout the health care system. At present there is no nationally sanctioned curriculum for APPs providing Allergy & Immunology (A&I) care.

A nationwide gap analysis and targeted needs assessment was conducted to examine the current level of education/training of APPs in A&I.

At present, training in A&I in NP/PA school is quite limited. The formal education and clinical training APPs receive at practice sites varies significantly with most APPs feeling only somewhat comfortable providing A&I care upon completion of their training period.

Results of a nationwide gap analysis and targeted needs assessment identify the need for providing education specific for A&I to APPs practicing in this field.

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